Opt for cool water rather than warm or hot. Cool water can help soothe reduce swelling and soothe itching. Don’t rub the bite when you dry it off, since this can irritate the bite and make any itching worse.
Hydrocortisone creams can help reduce swelling and inflammation. Antihistamine creams, such as Benadryl, can relieve itching and minimize the urge to scratch the bite. Make sure the skin is clean before you rub in any cream or gel to ensure you don’t irritate your skin.
Toothpastes with mint tend to work better than other flavors. The menthol in the mint also has a cooling effect, which helps to soothe inflammation and reduce swelling. [4] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
If you’re using natural or organic aloe vera gel, putting it in the refrigerator for a few minutes before applying it to your skin adds a cooling effect that may further reduce inflammation.
Organic or local honey varieties may work better than commercial honey to provide relief because they don’t have added sugars or other chemicals. Don’t use honey if you’re still outside, since it may attract other insects.
Clean the bitten skin with soap and water and pat it dry before applying a baking soda and water paste.
An ice pack or cold compress may also reduce the itching sensation. However, this effect only lasts as long as your skin is cooled. Once you remove the ice pack or cold compress and your skin’s temperature returns to normal, the itching will also likely return. Menthol has a similar anti-inflammatory effect without lowering the surface temperature of your skin. Creams or ointments with menthol in them may help reduce inflammation. [9] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
If you have a history of severe reactions to mosquito bites, take an oral antihistamine a few hours before you plan to be outside where mosquitos will likely be present. Most oral antihistamines provide 24-hour relief. Benadryl, however, must be taken once every 6 hours to retain its effectiveness. Carefully follow the dosage instructions on the package when using an over-the-counter oral antihistamine unless you’ve been directed otherwise by your doctor.
Keep in mind that scratching a mosquito bite only provides temporary relief. At the same time, it can help spread the mosquito’s saliva, which is responsible for the reaction.
If your skin develops a blister where the mosquito bit you, take care not to pop the blister when you’re cleaning your skin. This can increase your skin’s sensitivity and also leaves a raw area exposed to bacteria.
If the bite is surrounded by a larger area of redness or inflammation, make sure the gauze or bandage you use completely covers the inflamed skin. Don’t apply any adhesive material directly to the inflamed skin.
Rub the medicated cream into the skin around the bite so the medicine is well-absorbed. However, avoid rubbing directly on the bite, especially if a blister has formed. You could break the skin. To put the cream directly on the bite, simply dab it with the pad of a finger.
If you notice any of these warning signs of infection, make an appointment to see your doctor as soon as possible. If the bite is infected, it will take a round of antibiotics to heal. While you’re waiting to see the doctor, treat the infected bite with a topical antibiotic cream such as Bacitracin or Neosporin. Some antibiotic ointments also provide relief for itching and pain. [16] X Research source
If you are outside, try to stay in screened-in areas where mosquitoes will have a harder time getting to you. For example, you might watch the sunset from a screened-in porch.
Wearing white or light-colored clothing may actually keep you cooler than if you were wearing less clothing that exposed your skin. Loose-fitting clothing will also keep you from sweating as much.
Follow the instructions on the label carefully. Wash your hands after applying insect repellent and before eating, as it can be harmful if ingested.
If you have containers outside that collect water, empty them after any rainfall. Outdoor containers that are meant to hold water should be covered with a tight lid to prevent mosquitoes from accessing them. Empty and scrub clean containers such as vases, pet water bowls, and birdbaths once a week.
